What is a Dental Hygienist?

  As a practicing member of the dental health team, the dental hygienist acts as an educator and motivator in maintenance of oral health and the prevention of dental disease. There are many professional roles which the dental hygienist may assume: participation in community health programs, dental research, or as an active participant in the dental office.

Mission of the Dental Hygiene Program

  The mission of the Dental Hygiene Program as well as the mission of Wallace State is to provide the opportunity for the development of knowledge and skills through a quality hygiene program and services that are affordable, accessible and responsive to the needs of the community.

  Wallace State also seeks to educate competent dental hygienists who will provide Alabama with needed practitioners to assist citizens in achieving wellness.

Goals of the Dental Hygiene Program

  The overall goal of the Dental Hygiene Program is to provide students with an educational opportunity to acquire skills, knowledge and professional attitudes necessary for successful employment as competent entry-level, state licensed and nationally certified dental hygienists.

Associate in Applied Science Degree

  The Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission or Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, which qualifies graduates to take the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination. Following graduation from the Dental Hygiene Program, the student is eligible to take the Alabama State Dental Hygiene Board Exam to become a Registered Dental Hygienist. Graduates who successfully complete the National Board Exam are qualified to take any State or Regional licensing examination.